In-Situ Gas Diagnostics for High-Speed Flows

We will develop new sensor technology for high-speed, spatially resolved gas information by utilizing new detector technology, prior hyperspectral imaging techniques, and recent development of laser absorption sensors. The effort will result in the ability to obtain 2D-spatial, spectral, and temporal information in a concept we have dubbed, four-dimensional tunable laser absorption spectroscopy (4D-TLAS). In Phase I of this project, we will develop a breadboard 4D-TLAS system, and the effort will culminate with an optimized Phase II prototype design for use inside NASA test facilities.

The in-situ sensor will directly support NASA ground test facilities, which play a crucial role in aircraft and spacecraft development cycle.

There are a wide range of applications for such technology from environmental monitoring (e.g., imaging leaks, smokestack emissions), process control (e.g., inhomogeneous flue gas, combustion processes), and hypersonics (e.g., flow-field characterization, test diagnostics) that will also be pursued with the resulting technology.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 4) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

None of these are guaranteed paths for this specific project — TechPort itself doesn't have an "apply" button. Reaching out to the contact(s) above with a specific question is usually the fastest way to find out what's actually open.